Letter from Darlene Kumar: Why I am voting for Joe Gallagher

With a momentous election taking place tomorrow I would like to share a few words. First and foremost: thank you to Phil Crawford for his countless hours of dedicated service to Lynnfield. Regardless of the outcome of the election, on April 15th we all will continue to be neighbors in this town we love.

I write this letter to tell you why I am voting for Joe Gallagher.

Joe has a deep seated conviction to be a part of our community. He is a man of deep faith, integrity and possesses a highly visible work ethic. He is a father of three young daughters in Lynnfield Public Schools and an invested stakeholder in Lynnfield. Joe believes in collaboration, transparency in decision making, planning and documenting procedures and policies for accessibility, and a commitment to equity.

From SSS PTO communications to Finance Committee to Friends of the Lynnfield Theater, Joe has demonstrated his willingness to volunteer and lend his impressive expertise all while supporting a “horse shoe” collaborative approach rather than a circle.

For the last three years I have worked closely with Joe - initially on the New Library Project, then the Library Renovation Project, and most recently as a member of the Board of Library Trustees. In each of these collaborations Joe’s attention to detail and unwavering curiosity about Library operations showcase his strengths as a project manager that would translate seamlessly to the numerous duties of Select Board.

As Chair of the Board of Library Trustees Joe initiated and worked collaboratively to establish the first ever Rules & Regulations for the Board of Trustees, as well as the first ever Library Director’s Evaluation. Both of these guiding documents will benefit all future Board of Trustees in the governance of the Lynnfield Public Library.

Joe will be an invested advocate for every person in our Lynnfield community - from our youngest residents to our beloved Seniors. He will be an integral part of leading Lynnfield with respect, collaboration and a willingness to do the hard work to build a vibrant, safe and welcoming town.

Joe Gallagher is a friend, a fellow stay-at-home parent, and he has my full trust to guide Lynnfield into a brilliant future. Please join me in enthusiastically voting for Joe Gallagher for Select Board!

Darlene Kumar